Andes y amazon multisport 8 days

Discover the incredible natural beauty and rich culture of Ecuador’s Andes and Amazon on an adventurous multisport journey. This active expedition takes you through five unique ecosystems, combining thrilling activities with cultural immersion.

Enjoy mountain biking through cloud forests, kayaking on rainforest rivers, relaxing in hot springs, and interacting with indigenous communities. With expert guides by your side, you’ll experience trekking, biking, and whitewater kayaking in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth.

Itinerary

DAY 1: WELCOME TO ECUADOR

Your first day is free of scheduled activities, giving you the chance to explore Quito at your own pace. You may choose to stroll through its UNESCO-listed historic center, browse local markets, or visit museums to experience the city’s lively culture. For a more in-depth introduction, optional guided tours are available at an extra cost, offering valuable insights into Quito’s history and architecture.

In the evening, attend a welcome meeting at 6:00 PM in the hotel lobby, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers, and review the trip itinerary and important information for the upcoming adventure.

DAY 2: DISCOVERING PASOCHOA NATURE RESERVE AND CHAGRA TRADITIONS

Leaving Quito in the morning, the journey heads south along the Avenue of the Volcanoes, with the first stop at Pita River Canyon for views of the lush gorge and Pasochoa Volcano. The adventure continues with a scenic hike through the Pasochoa Forest, located in a collapsed volcanic crater, where you’ll explore high-altitude trails surrounded by Andean plants and birds. A picnic or box lunch is enjoyed amidst the natural beauty.

The day continues at Hacienda El Porvenir, a historic ranch that celebrates Ecuador’s chagra (Andean cowboy) traditions. Guests take part in a hands-on cooking class, preparing local favorites like cheese empanadas, ají, and canelazo, a traditional hot spiced drink.

The day ends with a relaxing evening at the hacienda, surrounded by peaceful Andean scenery, offering a perfect mix of nature, culture, and authentic flavors.

DAY 3: MOUNTAIN BIKING AT COTOPAXI VOLCANO AND EXPLORE BAÑOS

After breakfast, the adventure begins with a visit to Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes. After a safety briefing, enjoy an exciting mountain biking experience across highland plains, offering incredible views of Cotopaxi’s snow-covered summit and steaming vents. Along the way, you may spot wild horses, Andean foxes, and native birds in this unique ecosystem.

The ride continues to Limpiopungo Glacier Lake, a peaceful location where Cotopaxi’s reflection shimmers on the water, surrounded by Andean flora and fauna. After lunch, travel along the famous Avenue of the Volcanoes, with dramatic volcanic peaks leading the way to Baños, a charming colonial town nestled between cloud forests and waterfalls.

The day ends with a relaxing evening and a delicious dinner, enjoying the tranquil setting of this beautiful Andean destination.

DAY 4: CANYONING IN THE AMAZON AND KICHWA TRADITIONS

The day begins with a visit to the Pailón del Diablo, an impressive waterfall thundering through steep canyon walls. After enjoying this natural marvel, the journey continues toward Tena, taking us deeper into the heart of the Amazon.

At the Pimpilala Reserve, we are welcomed with a traditional Kichwa lunch, followed by an exciting canyoning adventure through a series of waterfalls, jungle trails, and natural pools—an adrenaline-filled way to experience the Amazon’s untouched beauty.

Later, we return to the homestay for a meaningful cultural exchange. Guests try the cerbatana (traditional blowgun) and take part in making chocolate from Ecuador’s famous cacao. The day ends with a tasty dinner and time to unwind, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the rainforest for a truly authentic Amazonian experience.

DAY 5: KAYAKING THE ARAJUNO RIVER

Embark on a kayaking adventure along the Arajuno River, renowned for its incredible
biodiversity, where sightings of colorful birds, playful otters, and monkeys are common. As
you paddle through the tranquil Amazon rainforest, immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythms
of nature. We’ll pause at a scenic riverbank to enjoy a box lunch amidst the lush surroundings.

In the afternoon, we transition from the Amazon basin back into the Andes, ascending from
1,500 to 10,000 feet (500 to 3,000 meters) through a national park with sweeping views of
the landscape. Our destination is the Papallacta Hot Springs Resort & Spa, where you can
unwind in naturally heated, therapeutic thermal pools, surrounded by cloud forest. Optional
spa treatments can be arranged in advance to complete this rejuvenating experience.

DAY 6: ANDEAN CULINARY TRADITIONS AND CULTURAL IMMERSION

Travel to a traditional Andean community to take part in a Pachamanca ceremony, where food is cooked underground using heated volcanic stones. As part of a ritual honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth), ingredients like meat, corn, tubers, fava beans, and humitas are cooked together, offering a flavorful and ancestral culinary experience.

After the meal, visit the famous Otavalo market, known for its vibrant textiles and artisan crafts. Browse handmade goods including weavings, jewelry, and traditional clothing. The day continues with a stop at a weaving workshop to learn about Andean textile traditions and a visit to the Andean Music Museum for insights into the region’s musical culture.

The day ends with an overnight stay at a charming colonial hacienda, surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Andean highlands.

DAY 7: LAKE CUICOCHA HIKE AND THE EQUATORIAL EXPERIENCE AT QUITSATO

After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to Lake Cuicocha, a beautiful volcanic crater lake nestled at the base of Cotacachi Volcano. Famous for its turquoise waters and central islands, the lake offers spectacular views. A scenic hike along the crater’s rim allows for panoramic vistas of the Andes and a chance to observe high-altitude plants like orchids and bromeliads, as well as native bird species.

Midway through the hike, we stop for a picnic or box lunch, enjoying traditional Ecuadorian cuisine surrounded by nature.

In the afternoon, we make our way back to Quito, stopping en route at the Quitsato Equatorial Monument. This unique site, located precisely on the equator, features a giant sundial and offers insights into how ancient civilizations understood astronomy and geography.

The journey concludes with time to reflect on a memorable adventure filled with natural wonders, cultural insights, and thrilling experiences.

DAY 8: TIME TO SAY, GOODBYE!

Today marks the end of our services, but if you’d like to continue exploring, we’re happy to help with additional travel plans. A perfect complement to your Andean experience is a visit to the Galápagos Islands, where you’ll find extraordinary wildlife and stunning landscapes. You might also consider extending your journey to other Latin American gems like Peru’s ancient ruins, Colombia’s vibrant cities, or the natural wonders of Chile and Argentina.

Wishing you safe travels, whether you’re returning home or setting off on your next adventure!

INCLUDING

• Top Experienced Certified English-Speaking Guide
• Airport transfers
• Private Transport
• Accommodation for seven nights
• Meals according to the Itinerary
• Water and snacks at all time
• Biking gear: (Quality bikes, front Air suspension with hydraulic brakes), certified helmets and gloves.
• Hiking gear: Trekking poles
• White Water: Kayaks, paddles, and life jackets
• Canyoning: Black diamond harnesses, helmets, ropes and rubber boots
• All fees to reserves and museums

NOT INCLUDED

• International or domestic flights
• Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Tips for guides and drivers
• Travel insurance (mandatory)
• Optional activities
• Water bottle

Book your trip.